The most relaxing part of Zagreb's summer…

When the sun starts burning, Zagreb starts “moving” to the Upper Town where the Summer at Štross programmes will go on from 29.th May to 2nd September and offer visitors heaps of fun in the deep shade. Join the crowds and head for one of the most romantic promenades in the city to partake in daily entertainment for all generations.

Summers have become even more pleasant in Zagreb ever since the Summer at Štross Festival started coming up with impressive entertainment programmes to be enjoyed every day. This year, the extravaganza will go on for as long as three months – from 29.th May to 2nd September. The programmes will start every morning with a laid-back overture – a colony of artists whose trades blend well with the space where they are being creative. Both young and experienced artists will be the main protagonists of this event. They will await visitors every day under the thick tops of the centenarian trees which align what is reputed to be one of the most romantic esplanades in the city.

This is the well-known Strossmayer’s Promenade, which has given the festival its name. As of several years ago, a rather quiet public walkway has been transformed into a bustling promenade of people. Not only can you ogle artwork at your leisure, but you can also sit down and pose for your own portrait, as the artists take their time and paint far away from the bustling city crowds. While sipping a cup of coffee, through the thick treetops you will catch glimpses of the rooftops in downtown Zagreb.

Besides different forms of art, the festival programme offers a plethora of other kinds of entertainment. As the day progresses towards late afternoon, the stage is taken over by musicians; a different band every day, playing different types of music. The range will include excellent jazz numbers, evergreens, the nostalgic tunes of the 50s, 60s or the 80s... You can listen to dance-inspiring Latin rhythms and shows by small demo bands, music from other countries and all sorts of customs to go with it. All in all, the atmosphere will become more and more heated as the day progresses, from leisurely in the morning to ever more fervent as the evening approaches. And then, nearly every evening, the audiences will be able to enjoy some seriously good music, alfresco dancing, get-togethers and all-round entertainment.

The festival programme has some very unique features which provide anything but a run-of-the-mill entertainment experience. For example, on 30th June, the half New Year will be celebrated along with the appropriate festive music and a fireworks display. The most beautiful mongrel dogs will be honoured as the stars of the Most Beautiful Strosser Pageant. The four-legged winner will receive a special award, a whole metre long delicious sausage.

All of the above is but a short selection of the rich programme. Instead of giving you information overload, the best advice to you all is this: whenever you feel like relaxing in the shade, or if you are in the mood for some serious fun or a truly romantic atmosphere – head for Štross, as many pleasant surprises await you there this summer.